Michelle Obama has since spoken publicly about her decision to not attend certain events she may be expected at as a former first lady, explaining that for the first time in her life, with her two daughters grown and her husband out of public office, she feels free to make decisions for herself.

The Obamas, who wed in 1992 and share two adult daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 24, have faced continuous speculation about their love life ― but rumors were amplified earlier this year when the former first lady opted to skip former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January.